Friday, December 22, 2006

Protecting children and preventing crime and disorder have been revealed as
key policies of Lancaster's new gambling policy. Members of the city council
have also agreed to help residents living close to businesses involving
gambling to have a say on new licences. As part of the Gambling Act 2005,
the council is set to take on responsibility for premises for licensing
gambling, granting permits for gaming machines in clubs and institutes,
regulating gaming machines in pubs and clubs and registering lotteries,
among others. The approved policy was drawn up after consultation with more
than 70 individuals and organisations, including parish councils, licensed
trade associations, betting shops, amusement arcades, leisure companies and
Lancashire Police.